Pros: Agile handling; impressive fuel economy; peppy acceleration in S model; long list of options and personalization features; convertible top partially retracts to offer “sunroof” mode
Cons: Control layout favors whimsical design over ergonomics; taut ride, especially on S model; cramped rear seat space and cargo room; pricey options add up quickly; premium fuel required
CG Says: After its redesign last year, the 2017 Mini Cooper Convertible sees only minor changes. A control screen, voice command, Bluetooth, and center armrest are now standard on Mini Cooper Convertible. Formerly standard driving-mode selector and multicolor interior lighting move to the option list. There is a new Seven Special Edition package with unique trim. The Mini Cooper Convertible is front-wheel drive, subcompact convertible. Because of the Mini’s handling and performance we include it our Sporty/Performance Car group. Base Coopers have a 134-horsepower turbocharged 3-cylinder engine; the sporty S model gets a 189-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (which is hopped up to 228 hp in the John Cooper Works model). Both engines offer the choice of either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. A broad range of optional technology features is available, including some rare-for-the-class features such as a self-parking system, heads-up display, and adaptive cruise control. The 2016 revamp brought slightly bigger dimensions that give this Mini Cooper Convertible a bit more space inside than its predecessor, but the car’s quirky personality and nimble, caffeinated driving character carry over intact. Mini Coopers are a bit pricey compared to some of the subcompacts they’re often shopped against, especially when the optional equipment is added. However, if you want a little enthusiast attitude in your commuter car–along with open-air driving–a Mini Cooper Convertible is worth checking out.
| Class | Sporty/Performance Car |
| Body Style(s) | 2-door convertible |
| Passenger Count | 4 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Mini |
| Nation of Manufacturer | England |
| Base Prices | Cooper: $25,950 Cooper S: $29,600 John Cooper Works: $35,600 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder |
| Horsepower 134 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 27-28 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 36-37 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 189 (228 in JCW) |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22-25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-33 |
